The Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group is changing up their annual car wash this year by paying special tribute to a local air controller and group of Marines who lost their lives in a tragic plane crash earlier this week.

Terry Rifkin, president of the Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group, said the organization will be honoring Sean Elliott, a forward air controller for the 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines, who was killed in the Monday, July 10, Marine Corps cargo plane crash in Mississippi.

“We’re calling it the American Heroes Car Wash,” Rifkin said. “This car wash will honor our hometown hero and all of the Marines who died in the crash, as well as the families that love them.”

Elliott’s parents, Cindy and John Elliott, reside in San Juan Capistrano and are volunteers of the organization, Rifkin said.

Those who attend will have an opportunity to learn about the community and the “Fighting Fifth” Marines. Local police and firefighters will also have their equipment on display.

The Dana Hills High School Football team and Marines will dry the vehicles. Proceeds from the event will benefit Wounded Warriors, Marines, Sailors and families of the 5th Marine Regiment.

The event will run from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturday, July 22, at Doheny Village Hand Car Wash, located at 34241 Doheny Park Road in Capistrano Beach.